Vacheron & Constantin Chronomètre Royal 24-Hour Pocket Watch

Technical characteristics

Type

Pocket chronometer & deck watch

Maker

Vacheron & Constantin

Diameter

57 mm

Case Type

Four-body, bassine

Case Material

18K yellow gold

Dial Features

24-hour numerals

Place recorded

Switzerland

Movement Finish

Frosted gilt

Movement Caliber

22''' 2 PRC

Maker / attribution

Vacheron & Constantin

Design

Visible features

• Sunray engine-turned pattern on the case back • Inner ring of red Arabic numerals 13-24 on the dial • Subsidiary seconds dial positioned at six o'clock • Gold spade-style hands

Case and Dial Design

The watch is presented in an 18K yellow gold four-body case of the bassine style. The exterior features a polished finish combined with a sunray engine-turned pattern on the back, providing a decorative contrast. The dial is constructed from white enamel and follows a clear, legible layout. It features large, bold radial Roman numerals for standard timekeeping, while a secondary, inner track provides red 24-hour Arabic numerals. A large subsidiary seconds dial is located at the six o'clock position, and the time is indicated by gold spade hands. The auction description notes the presence of a hairline on the dial.

Movement and Escapement

The internal mechanism is the Vacheron & Constantin Caliber 22''' 2 PRC. This keyless movement is finished in frosted gilt and utilizes 18 jewels. The winding system incorporates the wolf's tooth gear design, which is a hallmark of high-quality watchmaking from this era. The regulation and escapement assembly consists of a straight-line lever escapement paired with a cut bimetallic compensation balance. This is further regulated by a blued steel Breguet balance spring and a swan-neck micrometer regulator, which allowed for precise adjustments to the rate of the watch.

Signatures and Condition

All primary components, including the dial, case, cuvette, and movement, are signed by the maker. The identification numbers are recorded as movement number 350022 and case number 214531. Regarding the current state of the piece, the auction house provides a professional grading. The case is described as being in good condition, and the movement, while considered very good, is noted as requiring an overhaul. The dial is classified as good, though the report acknowledges the presence of a hairline and various types of decoration issues.

Identification

Serial number

214531

Source note

Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.

Catalogue references

No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.